2a3 or 300b amp for me ?


I have Klipsch Cornwall speakers and want to get a set amp to try out with them for 2000 dollars or less. The short list is a Welbourn 300b or a Wright Sound Labs 2A3 or 300b amp. All of these amps come highly recommemnded. I listen to jazz in a 14x25 room room at moderate levels. Comments are appreciated on the sound of a 2a3 vs a 300b and the suitablilty of these amps for my listening situation. Where does one tube type excell over the other if any place. Has any one listened to both to compare them ( tube types, not necessarliy the specific amps ).

thanks,

Larry
larry510

Showing 1 response by douglikesaudio

Larry, I'm largely with Fjgiovino56 above regarding the general differences between 2a3 & 300b. In my office I have an ASL Orchid 2a3 int amp and at home an Audio Note kit1 300b amp. From extented comparison, I'd say that the above description of 300b sound is what I've found: colorful and full especially in mids and lower mids. The 2a3 is sweet, but doesn't have as strong a charachter as the 300b. The 2a3 seems like it adds less color to the sound and less texture also. Overall, it seems more accurate due to it's clarity and yet gives tremendous depth which is something I always thought was related to a recessed midrange.

That said, I like the sound of my 300b more from a musical pleasure standpoint.

For reference, I haven't tried too many 2a3 tubes: JJ, other Chinese stock, and Sovtek. On the 300b I've tried stock Chinese and western electrics.

You may want to check with Boa2 as he runs Wright 2a3 on his Khorns. His sound is really good and truly satisfying.

Enjoy!